An eye-mounted device includes a contact lens and an embedded imaging system. The front aperture of the imaging system faces away from the user's eye so that the image sensor in the imaging system detects imagery of a user's external environment. The optics for the imaging system has a folded optical path, which is advantageous for fitting the imaging system into the limited space within the contact lens. In one design, the optics for the imaging system is based on a two mirror design, with a concave mirror followed by a convex mirror.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A femtoscope for imaging rays onto an image sensor, the femtoscope comprising: an annular input aperture facing away from the image sensor; an annular concave primary mirror facing the input aperture; a convex secondary mirror facing the primary mirror; an output aperture; wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror cooperate to image image-forming rays entering the input aperture through the output aperture and onto the image sensor; the image-forming rays defining a first ray bundle which propagates from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second ray bundle which propagates from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third ray bundle which propagates from the secondary mirror through the output aperture; a solid transparent substrate, wherein the first, second and third ray bundles all propagate through the solid transparent substrate; an input baffle positioned between the first ray bundle and the second ray bundle; and an output baffle positioned between the second ray bundle and the third ray bundle; wherein at least one of the input baffle and the output baffle comprises a groove in the solid transparent substrate, the groove comprising one absorbing surface adjacent to one of the two ray bundles that the baffle is positioned between and another absorbing surface adjacent to the other of the two ray bundles.
Optical imaging systems, specifically femtoscopes for detecting and imaging radiation, are disclosed. These systems address the challenge of efficiently capturing and directing radiation onto an image sensor while minimizing stray light. The femtoscope includes an annular input aperture designed to receive incoming radiation. An annular concave primary mirror faces this aperture, and a convex secondary mirror is positioned to face the primary mirror. These mirrors are configured to cooperatively image radiation entering the input aperture through an output aperture and onto an image sensor. The radiation forms distinct ray bundles: a first bundle from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second bundle from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third bundle from the secondary mirror through the output aperture. Crucially, all three ray bundles pass through a solid transparent substrate. To further refine imaging and reduce unwanted light, an input baffle is situated between the first and second ray bundles, and an output baffle is situated between the second and third ray bundles. At least one of these baffles is formed as a groove within the solid transparent substrate. This groove features an absorbing surface adjacent to one ray bundle and another absorbing surface adjacent to the other ray bundle it separates.
2. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the input baffle comprises the groove in the solid transparent substrate, the groove comprising one absorbing surface adjacent to the first ray bundle and another absorbing surface adjacent to the second ray bundle.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales, such as individual atoms or molecules. Traditional microscopes struggle with diffraction limits and aberrations, making it difficult to achieve sub-wavelength resolution. This femtoscope addresses these challenges by using a solid transparent substrate with an input baffle that includes a groove. The groove has two absorbing surfaces: one positioned adjacent to a first ray bundle and another adjacent to a second ray bundle. These absorbing surfaces reduce stray light and improve image clarity by minimizing unwanted reflections and scattering. The groove structure ensures that only the desired light paths contribute to the final image, enhancing resolution and contrast. The solid transparent substrate provides mechanical stability and optical precision, while the baffle design optimizes light control. This configuration allows the femtoscope to achieve sub-wavelength resolution, making it suitable for applications in nanotechnology, quantum optics, and advanced materials research. The absorbing surfaces prevent crosstalk between the ray bundles, ensuring accurate imaging of ultra-small structures.
3. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the output baffle comprises the groove in the solid transparent substrate, the groove comprising one absorbing surface adjacent to the second ray bundle and another absorbing surface adjacent to the third ray bundle, and the output baffle does not vignette any of the image-forming rays.
A femtoscope is an optical instrument designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales, often used in scientific research and nanotechnology. A key challenge in femtoscope design is minimizing stray light and vignetting (partial obstruction of light) while maintaining high image quality. This invention addresses these issues by incorporating an improved output baffle structure within the femtoscope. The femtoscope includes an output baffle integrated into a solid transparent substrate, featuring a groove with two absorbing surfaces. One absorbing surface is positioned adjacent to a second ray bundle, and the other is adjacent to a third ray bundle. These surfaces absorb stray light, preventing it from interfering with the image-forming rays. The groove's design ensures that the baffle does not vignette any of the image-forming rays, meaning it does not block or distort the light paths critical for forming a clear image. This configuration enhances image clarity and contrast by reducing unwanted reflections and scatter while preserving the full light path for accurate imaging. The baffle's integration into the transparent substrate also simplifies manufacturing and alignment, improving overall system robustness. This solution is particularly useful in high-precision applications where minimizing optical aberrations and stray light is essential.
4. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the output baffle comprises the groove in the solid transparent substrate, the groove comprising one absorbing surface adjacent to the second ray bundle and another absorbing surface adjacent to the third ray bundle, and the output baffle vignettes some of the image-forming rays.
A femtoscope is an optical instrument designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales, often used in scientific research to observe nanoscale or sub-nanoscale structures. A key challenge in femtoscope design is minimizing stray light and aberrations while maintaining high image quality. This invention addresses these issues by incorporating an improved output baffle structure within the femtoscope. The output baffle is integrated into a solid transparent substrate and features a groove with two absorbing surfaces. One surface is positioned adjacent to a second ray bundle, while the other is adjacent to a third ray bundle. These absorbing surfaces help to block unwanted light, reducing stray reflections and improving image contrast. The baffle also vignettes some of the image-forming rays, meaning it partially obstructs certain rays to enhance image sharpness and clarity by eliminating peripheral distortions. The groove structure ensures precise alignment of the absorbing surfaces with the ray bundles, optimizing light control without compromising the femtoscope's compact design. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging of tiny structures, such as in materials science, biology, or semiconductor inspection. The baffle's ability to selectively block stray light while preserving critical image-forming rays enhances the overall performance of the femtoscope.
5. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the input baffle and output baffle together block all direct optical paths for rays entering the input aperture from outside the femtoscope's field of view to the image sensor.
A femtoscope is a high-resolution optical imaging device designed for capturing images at extremely small scales, such as individual atoms or molecules. A key challenge in femtoscope design is preventing stray light from outside the intended field of view from reaching the image sensor, which can degrade image quality. This stray light can originate from reflections, scattering, or direct illumination outside the desired observation area. The femtoscope includes an input baffle and an output baffle positioned to block all direct optical paths for rays entering the input aperture from outside the femtoscope's field of view. The input baffle restricts incoming light to only the desired field of view, while the output baffle ensures that any stray light that bypasses the input baffle is further filtered before reaching the image sensor. Together, these baffles eliminate direct optical paths for unwanted light, improving image contrast and clarity. The baffles may be adjustable or fixed, depending on the specific application, and can be integrated with other optical components such as lenses or mirrors to further refine light collection. This design is particularly useful in high-precision imaging applications where minimizing stray light is critical.
6. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror are implemented as reflective coatings on opposing faces of the solid transparent substrate.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales, often used in nanotechnology and quantum research. Traditional femtoscopes face challenges in miniaturization, stability, and alignment precision, which can limit their performance and practical applications. This invention addresses these issues by integrating the primary and secondary mirrors as reflective coatings on opposing faces of a solid transparent substrate. The solid substrate provides structural rigidity, reducing mechanical vibrations and misalignment. The reflective coatings are applied directly to the substrate surfaces, eliminating the need for separate mirror components and their associated alignment mechanisms. This design simplifies manufacturing, improves stability, and enhances optical performance by minimizing optical path deviations. The transparent substrate allows light to pass through while reflecting off the coated surfaces, enabling compact and precise imaging. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging at the nanoscale, such as quantum dot analysis, single-molecule imaging, and semiconductor inspection. By integrating the mirrors into a single substrate, the femtoscope achieves greater durability, easier assembly, and improved imaging accuracy compared to conventional designs.
7. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the input aperture and the secondary mirror are axially aligned.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for ultra-high-resolution imaging at the femtometer scale, addressing challenges in observing subatomic particles and quantum phenomena. The invention improves upon existing femtoscope designs by incorporating an input aperture and a secondary mirror that are axially aligned. This alignment ensures precise focusing of light or particle beams, enhancing resolution and minimizing aberrations. The input aperture controls the beam's entry into the system, while the secondary mirror reflects and directs the beam toward a primary optical element, such as a lens or another mirror, to achieve the desired magnification and focus. The axial alignment of these components optimizes the optical path, reducing misalignment errors and improving the instrument's accuracy. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring extreme precision, such as quantum imaging, particle physics, and advanced microscopy. The invention may also include additional optical elements, such as lenses or filters, to further refine the beam's properties and enhance imaging performance. By ensuring the input aperture and secondary mirror are coaxially aligned, the femtoscope achieves superior resolution and stability, making it suitable for cutting-edge scientific research and industrial applications.
8. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein primary mirror and the output aperture are axially aligned.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for ultra-high-resolution imaging at the nanoscale or femtoscale, addressing the challenge of resolving features smaller than the diffraction limit of conventional microscopes. The primary mirror in the femtoscope collects and focuses light from a sample, while the output aperture directs the processed light to a detector or imaging system. Axial alignment between the primary mirror and the output aperture ensures precise optical path alignment, minimizing aberrations and improving resolution. This alignment optimizes light collection efficiency and reduces stray light, enhancing image clarity and contrast. The femtoscope may incorporate additional optical elements, such as secondary mirrors or lenses, to further refine the imaging performance. The device is particularly useful in fields like nanotechnology, materials science, and biomedical imaging, where sub-wavelength resolution is critical. The axial alignment feature ensures consistent and accurate imaging by maintaining the optical axis symmetry, which is essential for high-precision applications. The femtoscope may also include mechanisms for adjusting the alignment dynamically to compensate for environmental factors or sample positioning. Overall, the invention provides a robust solution for ultra-high-resolution imaging by leveraging precise optical alignment to overcome the limitations of traditional microscopy techniques.
9. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the femtoscope is not larger than 2 mm×2 mm×2 mm.
A femtoscope is a high-resolution imaging device designed for observing ultrafast phenomena at the nanoscale, addressing the challenge of capturing dynamic processes with both spatial and temporal precision. The femtoscope includes a probe with a sub-wavelength aperture to focus light onto a sample, enabling sub-diffraction-limited imaging. A scanning mechanism moves the probe relative to the sample to construct a detailed image. The system also incorporates a timing mechanism to synchronize light pulses with the probe's position, allowing the capture of ultrafast events. The femtoscope is compact, with dimensions not exceeding 2 mm × 2 mm × 2 mm, making it suitable for integration into miniaturized or portable systems. This small form factor facilitates deployment in environments where space is constrained, such as in-vivo biological imaging or nanoscale material analysis. The device's high resolution and ultrafast capabilities enable real-time observation of molecular interactions, electronic transitions, and other nanoscale dynamics, providing insights into fundamental physical and biological processes. The compact design ensures minimal interference with the sample while maintaining high performance, making it a versatile tool for advanced microscopy and ultrafast spectroscopy applications.
10. The femtoscope of claim 1 , wherein the femtoscope is axially symmetric.
A femtoscope is an optical instrument designed for high-resolution imaging at the femtosecond scale, enabling the observation of ultrafast phenomena such as molecular vibrations, electron dynamics, and other sub-picosecond processes. Traditional imaging systems struggle to capture such rapid events due to limitations in temporal resolution and spatial precision. The femtoscope addresses this by incorporating advanced optical components and synchronization techniques to achieve both high temporal and spatial resolution simultaneously. The femtoscope includes a light source, such as a femtosecond laser, that emits ultrashort pulses. These pulses are directed through a beam-shaping system to control their spatial and temporal properties before interacting with the sample. The system may also include adaptive optics to correct aberrations and enhance image quality. A detection module captures the resulting signals, which are then processed to reconstruct the ultrafast dynamics of the sample. In this particular embodiment, the femtoscope is axially symmetric, meaning its optical components are arranged in a rotationally symmetric configuration around a central axis. This design improves stability, reduces optical distortions, and ensures uniform illumination and detection across the field of view. The axial symmetry also simplifies alignment and calibration, making the system more robust for high-precision measurements. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging of ultrafast phenomena in biological, chemical, or material science research.
11. A femtoscope for imaging rays onto an image sensor, the femtoscope comprising: an annular input aperture facing away from the image sensor; an annular concave primary mirror facing the input aperture; a convex secondary mirror facing the primary mirror; an output aperture; wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror cooperate to image image-forming rays entering the input aperture through the output aperture and onto the image sensor; the image-forming rays defining a first ray bundle which propagates from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second ray bundle which propagates from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third ray bundle which propagates from the secondary mirror through the output aperture; a solid transparent substrate, wherein the first, second and third ray bundles all propagate through the solid transparent substrate; an input baffle positioned between the first ray bundle and the second ray bundle; an output baffle positioned between the second ray bundle and the third ray bundle; and a side baffle positioned around a side of the solid transparent substrate.
A femtoscope is a compact optical imaging system designed for high-resolution imaging of rays onto an image sensor. The device addresses challenges in miniaturizing optical systems while maintaining high image quality and minimizing stray light interference. The femtoscope includes an annular input aperture that receives incoming rays, which are then directed onto an annular concave primary mirror. A convex secondary mirror is positioned to reflect the rays from the primary mirror, focusing them through an output aperture and onto the image sensor. The primary and secondary mirrors work together to form an image by directing the rays through three distinct ray bundles: the first bundle travels from the input aperture to the primary mirror, the second bundle propagates from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and the third bundle travels from the secondary mirror through the output aperture to the sensor. All three ray bundles pass through a solid transparent substrate, which provides structural support and optical clarity. To reduce stray light and improve image quality, the system includes an input baffle between the first and second ray bundles, an output baffle between the second and third ray bundles, and a side baffle around the substrate. These baffles help block unwanted light reflections and scatter, ensuring a clear and accurate image. The design enables high-resolution imaging in a compact form factor, suitable for applications requiring precise optical measurements in constrained spaces.
12. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the side baffle is shaped to prevent any single-reflection optical paths for rays to enter the input aperture and reflect off the side baffle to reach the image sensor.
A femtoscope is a high-resolution imaging device designed for capturing ultra-fine details at the nanoscale or sub-nanoscale level. A key challenge in femtoscope design is minimizing stray light and unwanted reflections that degrade image quality. Stray light can arise from multiple reflections within the optical path, particularly from internal surfaces like baffles, which are structures used to block unwanted light. This invention addresses the problem by incorporating a side baffle with a specific shape that eliminates single-reflection optical paths. The baffle is designed so that any light entering the input aperture cannot reflect off the baffle just once and then reach the image sensor. By preventing such single reflections, the baffle reduces stray light contributions that would otherwise reduce contrast and resolution. The baffle's shape ensures that any reflected light either exits the system or undergoes multiple reflections, which are further attenuated or blocked by additional optical elements. This design enhances image clarity and accuracy in femtoscope applications, particularly in high-precision imaging tasks where minimizing optical noise is critical. The baffle may be integrated into the femtoscope's optical housing or positioned near the input aperture to intercept stray light effectively.
13. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the side baffle includes one section that is elliptical in cross-section.
A femtoscope is an optical instrument designed for high-resolution imaging at the nanoscale, addressing the need for precise visualization of ultrafine structures in materials science, biology, and nanotechnology. Traditional microscopes often lack the resolution required for sub-nanometer features, limiting advancements in these fields. The femtoscope overcomes this by incorporating advanced optical components and baffle systems to minimize stray light and enhance image clarity. The femtoscope includes a side baffle, a structural element that blocks unwanted light from reaching the imaging sensor. This baffle is designed to prevent internal reflections and scattering, which degrade image quality. In an improved version, the side baffle includes at least one section with an elliptical cross-section. This elliptical shape optimizes light blocking efficiency by reducing gaps where light could leak through, ensuring a more uniform and precise light path. The elliptical section may be integrated into a larger baffle system, which may include multiple baffle elements arranged to further minimize stray light. The baffle's design ensures that only the intended light reaches the imaging sensor, improving contrast and resolution. This enhancement is particularly useful in applications requiring extreme precision, such as semiconductor inspection, biological imaging, and nanoscale material analysis. The elliptical baffle section contributes to the overall performance by maintaining optical integrity and reducing noise, making the femtoscope a more reliable tool for high-resolution imaging.
14. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the input baffle, output baffle and side baffle are shaped to prevent any single-reflection optical paths for rays to enter the input aperture and reflect off one of the baffles to reach the image sensor.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales, often used in scientific research to observe nanoscale or sub-nanoscale structures. A key challenge in femtoscope design is minimizing stray light and unwanted reflections that degrade image quality. These reflections can occur when light enters the input aperture, bounces off internal baffles, and reaches the image sensor, introducing noise and artifacts. This invention addresses this problem by incorporating an input baffle, an output baffle, and a side baffle, each shaped to eliminate single-reflection optical paths. The baffles are configured so that any light entering the input aperture cannot reflect off a single baffle and reach the image sensor. This ensures that only direct or properly filtered light contributes to the image, significantly improving contrast and resolution. The baffles may use angled surfaces, light-absorbing materials, or other geometric features to block or absorb stray reflections. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring high-precision imaging, such as biological microscopy, semiconductor inspection, or materials science, where minimizing optical interference is critical. The baffle arrangement may be combined with other optical elements, such as lenses or filters, to further enhance performance.
15. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the output baffle comprises a flat absorbing ring.
A femtoscope is an optical instrument designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely short time scales, often used in ultrafast spectroscopy and microscopy. A key challenge in femtoscope design is minimizing stray light and background noise to enhance image clarity and signal-to-noise ratio. This is particularly important when imaging ultrafast phenomena, where even minor optical distortions can obscure critical details. The invention addresses this problem by incorporating an output baffle with a flat absorbing ring. The baffle is positioned at the output of the femtoscope to intercept and absorb stray light, preventing it from reaching the detector. The flat absorbing ring is designed to minimize reflections and scatter, ensuring that only the desired signal light contributes to the final image. This design improves the femtoscope's ability to capture high-contrast, high-resolution images of ultrafast events, such as molecular dynamics or laser-induced processes. The absorbing ring may be made from materials with high optical absorption properties, such as black anodized metal or specialized coatings, to further enhance performance. The baffle's flat geometry ensures compatibility with existing femtoscope designs while providing effective stray light suppression. This solution is particularly useful in applications requiring precise temporal and spatial resolution, such as time-resolved spectroscopy and ultrafast microscopy.
16. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the input baffle and output baffle together block all direct optical paths for rays entering the input aperture from outside the femtoscope's field of view to the image sensor.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales, such as individual atoms or molecules. A key challenge in femtoscope design is preventing stray light from outside the intended field of view from reaching the image sensor, which can degrade image quality. This stray light can originate from reflections, scattering, or direct illumination outside the desired observation area. The invention addresses this problem by incorporating an input baffle and an output baffle. The input baffle is positioned at the input aperture of the femtoscope and is structured to block light rays entering from outside the intended field of view. The output baffle is positioned near the image sensor and further filters out any remaining stray light that may have bypassed the input baffle. Together, these baffles ensure that only light from within the desired field of view reaches the image sensor, eliminating direct optical paths for unwanted light. This design enhances imaging clarity and precision, particularly in applications requiring atomic or molecular resolution. The baffles may be adjustable or fixed, depending on the specific optical configuration. The overall system may also include additional optical components, such as lenses or mirrors, to focus and direct the light onto the sensor.
17. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror are implemented as reflective coatings on opposing faces of the solid transparent substrate.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for ultra-high-resolution imaging, particularly for observing ultrafast phenomena at the femtosecond scale. Traditional femtoscopes often rely on complex arrangements of mirrors and lenses, which can introduce aberrations and limit performance. The invention addresses this by integrating the primary and secondary mirrors as reflective coatings on opposing faces of a solid transparent substrate. This monolithic design reduces alignment errors, minimizes optical path length, and improves stability. The substrate, made of a material like fused silica or sapphire, ensures high transparency and mechanical rigidity. The reflective coatings are applied to precise regions of the substrate's surfaces, forming the primary and secondary mirrors. This configuration simplifies manufacturing, enhances durability, and improves imaging accuracy by eliminating the need for separate mirror components. The femtoscope can be used in applications such as ultrafast spectroscopy, quantum optics, and high-speed microscopy, where precise timing and resolution are critical. The integrated mirror design also reduces the overall footprint of the device, making it more compact and portable. The invention overcomes limitations of conventional femtoscopes by providing a more robust, efficient, and high-performance optical system.
18. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the input aperture and the secondary mirror are axially aligned.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely short time scales, enabling the observation of ultrafast phenomena such as electron dynamics or molecular vibrations. Traditional microscopes lack the temporal resolution needed to capture such rapid events, creating a need for instruments that combine spatial and temporal precision. This femtoscope addresses this challenge by incorporating an input aperture and a secondary mirror that are axially aligned, ensuring precise optical path alignment and minimizing aberrations. The input aperture controls the light entering the system, while the secondary mirror reflects and focuses the beam onto a detector or sample. Axial alignment between these components optimizes light collection efficiency and resolution, allowing for clearer imaging of ultrafast processes. The design may also include additional optical elements, such as lenses or beam splitters, to further enhance performance. By aligning the input aperture and secondary mirror along a common axis, the femtoscope achieves improved stability and accuracy in capturing high-speed phenomena, making it suitable for applications in physics, chemistry, and materials science.
19. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein primary mirror and the output aperture are axially aligned.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales, often used in nanotechnology and quantum research. Traditional microscopes struggle with diffraction limits and aberrations when imaging at femtometer (10^-15 meter) scales, leading to poor resolution and image distortion. This invention addresses these issues by incorporating a primary mirror and an output aperture that are axially aligned, ensuring precise light collection and focusing. The primary mirror reflects and directs light to the output aperture, which is positioned along the same optical axis, minimizing misalignment and improving image clarity. This alignment reduces optical aberrations and enhances resolution, enabling the femtoscope to capture detailed images of structures at the femtometer scale. The invention may also include additional components, such as secondary mirrors or lenses, to further refine the optical path and optimize performance. By maintaining axial alignment between the primary mirror and output aperture, the femtoscope achieves superior imaging capabilities for applications in nanoscale and quantum research.
20. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the femtoscope is not larger than 2 mm×2 mm×2 mm.
A femtoscope is a high-resolution imaging device designed for capturing ultra-fast phenomena at the femtosecond scale, addressing the challenge of visualizing rapid molecular and atomic processes that traditional microscopes cannot resolve. The femtoscope includes a compact optical system with a light source, a beam splitter, and a detector array, enabling time-resolved imaging with femtosecond precision. The optical system is configured to direct light through a sample, split the reflected or transmitted light into multiple paths, and detect the resulting signals to reconstruct high-resolution images. The device may also incorporate adaptive optics to correct aberrations and enhance image clarity. The femtoscope is designed to be highly portable and minimally invasive, with a maximum size constraint of 2 mm × 2 mm × 2 mm, allowing integration into confined spaces or direct attachment to biological or mechanical systems for in-situ analysis. This compact design facilitates applications in fields such as nanotechnology, biomedical imaging, and materials science, where traditional bulky instruments are impractical. The femtoscope's small form factor enables deployment in environments where space is limited, such as inside living cells or within microelectronic devices, while maintaining the ability to capture ultrafast events with high spatial and temporal resolution.
21. The femtoscope of claim 11 , wherein the femtoscope is axially symmetric.
A femtoscope is an optical device designed for ultra-high-resolution imaging at the femtosecond timescale, enabling the observation of ultrafast phenomena such as electron dynamics or molecular vibrations. Traditional imaging systems lack the temporal resolution required to capture such rapid events, leading to limitations in scientific research and industrial applications. The femtoscope addresses this by incorporating a time-resolving element, such as a streak camera or pump-probe system, alongside a high-numerical-aperture lens to achieve both spatial and temporal precision. The femtoscope includes a light source, an optical path for directing light to a sample, and a detection system for capturing the resulting signal. The device may also feature adaptive optics to correct aberrations and enhance image quality. In one configuration, the femtoscope is axially symmetric, meaning its optical components are arranged concentrically around a central axis. This symmetry improves stability, reduces optical distortions, and simplifies alignment, making the system more robust for high-precision measurements. The axially symmetric design ensures uniform illumination and detection, which is critical for accurate temporal and spatial resolution. This configuration is particularly useful in applications requiring high repeatability, such as time-resolved spectroscopy or ultrafast microscopy. The femtoscope may also include additional features like a scanning mechanism or a phase retrieval algorithm to further enhance imaging performance.
22. A femtoscope for imaging rays onto an image sensor, the femtoscope comprising: an annular input aperture facing away from the image sensor; an annular concave primary mirror facing the input aperture; a convex secondary mirror facing the primary mirror; an output aperture; wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror cooperate to image image-forming rays entering the input aperture through the output aperture and onto the image sensor; the image-forming rays defining a first ray bundle which propagates from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second ray bundle which propagates from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third ray bundle which propagates from the secondary mirror through the output aperture; a solid transparent substrate, wherein the first, second and third ray bundles all propagate through the solid transparent substrate; an input baffle positioned between the first ray bundle and the second ray bundle; and an output baffle positioned between the second ray bundle and the third ray bundle; wherein the primary mirror and the output aperture are axially aligned, and the output aperture and the image sensor are axially separated.
A femtoscope is an optical imaging device designed to capture high-resolution images of extremely small objects or features, such as those at the nanoscale or femtoscale. Traditional imaging systems often struggle with diffraction limits and aberrations when resolving such fine details. This femtoscope addresses these challenges by using a compact, multi-mirror optical system to enhance resolution and minimize distortions. The femtoscope includes an annular input aperture that collects incoming rays, which then propagate through a solid transparent substrate. The rays first form a first ray bundle that travels to an annular concave primary mirror. The primary mirror reflects the rays as a second ray bundle toward a convex secondary mirror, which further redirects them as a third ray bundle through an output aperture and onto an image sensor. The primary and secondary mirrors work together to focus the rays, ensuring precise imaging of the target object. To prevent stray light and improve image quality, the system incorporates an input baffle between the first and second ray bundles and an output baffle between the second and third ray bundles. The primary mirror and output aperture are axially aligned, while the output aperture and image sensor are axially separated, optimizing the optical path for minimal aberrations. The entire optical path, including all ray bundles, propagates through the solid transparent substrate, ensuring structural integrity and optical stability. This design enables high-resolution imaging of nanoscale features with reduced distortion and improved contrast.
23. A femtoscope for imaging rays onto an image sensor, the femtoscope comprising: an annular input aperture facing away from the image sensor; an annular concave primary mirror facing the input aperture; a convex secondary mirror facing the primary mirror; an output aperture; wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror cooperate to image image-forming rays entering the input aperture through the output aperture and onto the image sensor; the image-forming rays defining a first ray bundle which propagates from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second ray bundle which propagates from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third ray bundle which propagates from the secondary mirror through the output aperture; a solid transparent substrate, wherein the first, second and third ray bundles all propagate through the solid transparent substrate; an input baffle positioned between the first ray bundle and the second ray bundle; and an output baffle positioned between the second ray bundle and the third ray bundle; wherein the input aperture forms a refractive interface between two materials of different indices of refraction, and the input aperture is curved.
A femtoscope is an optical imaging device designed to capture high-resolution images of extremely small objects, such as nanoparticles or biological structures, by focusing light rays onto an image sensor. The device addresses the challenge of imaging at nanoscale resolutions, where conventional microscopes may lack sufficient precision or light-gathering capability. The femtoscope includes an annular input aperture that faces away from the image sensor and is curved, forming a refractive interface between materials with different refractive indices. Light rays enter through this aperture and propagate as a first ray bundle toward an annular concave primary mirror, which reflects the rays toward a convex secondary mirror. The secondary mirror redirects the rays as a third ray bundle through an output aperture and onto the image sensor. All three ray bundles travel through a solid transparent substrate, ensuring stable and precise light propagation. The device also includes an input baffle positioned between the first and second ray bundles and an output baffle between the second and third ray bundles. These baffles minimize stray light and improve image clarity. The primary and secondary mirrors work together to focus the image-forming rays onto the sensor, enabling high-resolution imaging at nanoscale dimensions. The curved input aperture enhances light collection efficiency and reduces aberrations, improving overall imaging performance.
24. The femtoscope of claim 23 , wherein the primary mirror, the secondary mirror and the input aperture are each aspheric.
A femtoscope is an optical instrument designed for ultra-high-resolution imaging at the nanometer or femtometer scale, typically used in advanced microscopy and quantum optics. The invention addresses the challenge of achieving sub-wavelength resolution while minimizing aberrations and distortions in the imaging system. The femtoscope includes a primary mirror, a secondary mirror, and an input aperture, all of which are aspheric in shape. Aspheric surfaces deviate from spherical geometry, allowing for precise control of light reflection and refraction, which reduces optical aberrations such as spherical aberration, coma, and astigmatism. The primary mirror collects and focuses light from a sample, while the secondary mirror redirects the light toward the input aperture, which further refines the beam path. The aspheric design of all three components ensures optimal light convergence and minimizes diffraction effects, enabling high-resolution imaging at extremely small scales. This configuration improves image clarity and accuracy, making the femtoscope suitable for applications in nanotechnology, quantum research, and high-precision optical measurements. The use of aspheric elements enhances the system's performance by providing superior correction of optical distortions compared to traditional spherical or parabolic mirrors.
25. A femtoimager comprising: an image sensor; and a femtoscope for imaging rays onto the image sensor, the femtoscope comprising: an annular input aperture facing away from the image sensor; an annular concave primary mirror facing the input aperture; a convex secondary mirror facing the primary mirror; an output aperture; wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror cooperate to image image-forming rays entering the input aperture through the output aperture and onto the image sensor; the image-forming rays defining a first ray bundle which propagates from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second ray bundle which propagates from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third ray bundle which propagates from the secondary mirror through the output aperture; a solid transparent substrate, wherein the first, second and third ray bundles all propagate through the solid transparent substrate; an input baffle positioned between the first ray bundle and the second ray bundle; and an output baffle positioned between the second ray bundle and the third ray bundle; wherein at least one of the input baffle and the output baffle comprises a groove in the solid transparent substrate, the groove comprising one absorbing surface adjacent to one of the two ray bundles that the baffle is positioned between and another absorbing surface adjacent to the other of the two ray bundles.
A femtoimager is a compact imaging system designed for high-resolution imaging in constrained spaces. The device addresses challenges in miniaturized optical systems, such as stray light interference and limited space for optical components. The femtoimager includes an image sensor and a femtoscope, which directs image-forming rays onto the sensor. The femtoscope features an annular input aperture, a concave primary mirror, a convex secondary mirror, and an output aperture. The primary and secondary mirrors work together to focus rays entering the input aperture onto the image sensor. The rays form three distinct bundles: the first propagates from the input aperture to the primary mirror, the second from the primary to the secondary mirror, and the third from the secondary mirror through the output aperture to the sensor. All ray bundles travel through a solid transparent substrate, which houses the optical components. To minimize stray light, the system includes an input baffle between the first and second ray bundles and an output baffle between the second and third bundles. At least one of these baffles is integrated into the substrate as a groove with two absorbing surfaces, each adjacent to a different ray bundle. This design ensures efficient light path isolation while maintaining compactness. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging in limited spaces, such as medical devices or micro-optical systems.
26. An electronic contact lens comprising a contact lens containing a femtoscope and an image sensor, the femtoscope facing an external environment when the contact lens is worn by a user, the femtoscope imaging the external environment onto the image sensor; wherein the femtoscope comprises: an annular input aperture facing towards the external environment and away from the image sensor; an annular concave primary mirror facing the input aperture; a convex secondary mirror facing the primary mirror; an output aperture; wherein the primary mirror and secondary mirror cooperate to image image-forming rays entering the input aperture through the output aperture and onto the image sensor; the image-forming rays defining a first ray bundle which propagates from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second ray bundle which propagates from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third ray bundle which propagates from the secondary mirror through the output aperture; a solid transparent substrate, wherein the first, second and third ray bundles all propagate through the solid transparent substrate; an input baffle positioned between the first ray bundle and the second ray bundle; and an output baffle positioned between the second ray bundle and the third ray bundle; wherein at least one of the input baffle and the output baffle comprises a groove in the solid transparent substrate, the groove comprising one absorbing surface adjacent to one of the two ray bundles that the baffle is positioned between and another absorbing surface adjacent to the other of the two ray bundles.
This invention relates to an electronic contact lens incorporating a femtoscope and an image sensor for imaging the external environment. The contact lens includes a femtoscope with an annular input aperture facing outward, an annular concave primary mirror, a convex secondary mirror, and an output aperture. The primary and secondary mirrors work together to direct image-forming rays from the input aperture through the output aperture onto the image sensor. The rays form three distinct bundles: a first bundle from the input aperture to the primary mirror, a second bundle from the primary mirror to the secondary mirror, and a third bundle from the secondary mirror to the output aperture. All three ray bundles propagate through a solid transparent substrate. The design includes an input baffle between the first and second ray bundles and an output baffle between the second and third ray bundles to reduce stray light. At least one of these baffles is formed as a groove in the substrate, with absorbing surfaces on either side to minimize reflections and improve image quality. The system enables compact, high-resolution imaging directly from the contact lens, addressing challenges in miniaturized optical systems for wearable devices.
27. The electronic contact lens of claim 26 , further comprising: a femtoprojector also contained in the contact lens, the femtoprojector projecting images onto the user's retina.
Electronic contact lenses are designed to enhance vision by integrating electronic components into a wearable lens. A key challenge in this technology is providing high-resolution visual information directly to the user's retina without requiring bulky external devices. To address this, an electronic contact lens includes a femtoprojector embedded within the lens structure. The femtoprojector is a miniature projection system capable of projecting images directly onto the user's retina. This allows for the display of visual information, such as augmented reality overlays or medical diagnostics, without the need for external screens or additional hardware. The femtoprojector operates at a microscopic scale, ensuring the lens remains lightweight and comfortable for extended wear. By integrating the femtoprojector into the contact lens, the device provides a seamless and immersive visual experience, enhancing applications in healthcare, entertainment, and assistive technologies. The lens may also include other components, such as sensors or power sources, to support the femtoprojector's functionality. This innovation eliminates the need for external displays, making the system more portable and user-friendly.
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June 8, 2020
April 5, 2022
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